3 Problems with Prefabricated Cedar Fence Panels
Prefabricated cedar fence panels are a common choice for many homeowners looking to add a wooden fence to their property. However, as with any product, there are also some downsides to choosing the cheaper, easier option. In this blog post, we will explore the three problems with prefabricated cedar fence panels for your strata fence replacement project.
What are Prefabricated cedar fence panels?
Prefabricated cedar fence panels are pre-built sections of fencing made from cedar wood that are designed to be easily installed. These panels typically consist of vertical cedar boards held together by horizontal support rails. They are manufactured off-site and delivered as complete units, ready to be assembled on the desired location.
Before we jump into the problems, first we will explain why people choose to use prefabricated fence panels.
People choose to use prefabricated fence panels because they offer a convenient and time-saving solution for installing fences. These panels are pre-built and ready to be assembled, eliminating the need for measuring, cutting, and placing individual boards, making the fence installation process quicker and more efficient.
Three Problems with Prefabricated Cedar Fence Panels
1. Limited Customization Options
One of the biggest drawbacks of prefabricated cedar fence panels is that they come in a limited selection of standard sizes and designs. This means that if you have a specific design or size in mind for your fence, you may not be able to find a prefabricated panel that meets your needs. This can make it difficult to achieve the aesthetic you are looking for and may also make it harder to fit the fence into your specific landscape.
2. Quality Control Issues
Prefabricated cedar fence panels are often mass-produced in a factory setting. This can lead to quality control issues, such as panels that are not properly finished or that have knots or other imperfections. This can make it difficult to find a panel that is of high quality and that will stand the test of time.
3. Poor Installation & Lack of airflow
Since the panels are pre-made, they may not fit as snugly as a custom-made fence that is made specifically for the landscape and to fit that specific yard. Also, these prefabricated cedar fence panels are often too close to the ground, and lack of airflow can trap moisture which leads to rotting.
These three short-term reasons why pre-fabricated fence panels are not the best choice lead us to the worst part: a fence made from pre-fabricated fence panels will rot faster.
Are you more of a watcher than a reader?
Watch this video for a demonstration of prefabricated vs handbuilt cedar fences.
The traditional pre-fabricated panels have one fatal flaw at the bottom of the panels, we call it the rot trough. Basically, the rain falls down the fence and is retained at the bottom in the trough which over time causes the bottom end of the vertical panels to rot. This will cause the boards to eventually drop down and fall out. In our experience, a pre-fabricated fence will only last between 12-15 years in the rainy BC climate.
The Cedar Fence Solution
So, what is the solution? Is there a better option than the traditional pre-fabricated fence?
Yes! Meet the Cambridge Flow-Through Design. This custom handbuilt cedar fence is designed to have overlapping panels which meet at the bottom allowing the rain to flow down and drain through the base of the fence. The result is there is no trough for water to build up and sit which causes rotting. This custom-handbuilt Cambridge flow-through fence will last 25 years in our wet BC climate. That’s 10-15 years longer than a pre-fabricated fence!
In Conclusion
In conclusion, prefabricated cedar fence panels can be a quick and easy option for those looking to add a wooden fence to their property. However, they do have some downsides, including limited customization options, quality control issues, and shorter life expectancy.
It’s essential to consider the long-term effects before deciding which fencing option is best for your home.
It is important for homeowners and strata owners to make long-term investments in quality installs because it can save you money in the long run. High-quality installations, such as those done by professional contractors, are built to last and require less maintenance and repairs over time.
Additionally, quality installs can improve a property’s overall value and appearance, making it more appealing to potential buyers if you ever decide to sell. Furthermore, investing in quality installs can also improve your investment’s overall energy efficiency and safety.
We hope you found this article informative. Feel free to call or email us with any questions about fence replacement for your strata, and a member of our support team will be happy to assist you. We pride ourselves on having the best customer service in the industry. We care about our clients and are genuinely grateful for their business. Thank you for reading this.
